Lower back pain is a pervasive problem for Americans and is the second leading reason for a visit to the doctor. Most back pain is mechanical in nature, meaning it has something to do with the way the structures of the back are functioning. Over time, a mechanical dysfunction can turn an acute mild back pain episode into a chronic, ongoing problem that affects a person's daily life. Pain that lasts more than 6 weeks or has a tendency to come and go over a long period is considered chronic.
Dull Achy Pain
Most chronic low back pain is not sharp or stabbing, but rather dull and achy, diffuse or hard to pinpoint. An acute episode of back pain will often be sharp and related to movement as with a muscle strain. With a chronic problem, pain seems more likely to be present in virtually any position. Pain may come and go with episodes lasting days to weeks, or the pain may be constant until appropriate treatment is offered. Acute pain will generally resolve in 6 weeks or less. According to the Mayo Clinic, any severe or progressive pain should be diagnosed by a doctor.
Hip/Pelvis Pain
Often, when low back pain is experienced and it relates to a mechanical disorder, that pain will extend into the hips or pelvis. The sacroiliac or SI joint is located between the Ilium or pelvic bones and the bottom part of the spine called the sacrum. Very commonly, pain can arise from lack of mobility and rotational torsion in one or both SI joints and be felt throughout the low back. Pinpoint tenderness may be felt on one side or the other at the top of the pelvis. Sitting too long with poor posture can aggravate these joints, causing pain and inflammation. Chiropractic treatment for SI joint pain can be effective.
Radiating Pain
Chronic dysfunction in the lumbar spine will often lead to disc herniation. The disc is a soft cushion found between each vertebra and is responsible for shock absorption and aids in normal movement. When the soft middle section of the disc pushes out of its normal confines, it can put pressure on the nearby nerve roots, causing radiating pain to travel down the back, side, or front of the leg. Radiating pain should always be carefully diagnosed by a back pain specialist.
Muscle Spasm
Muscle spasm is a common trait with both acute and chronic back pain. Muscles that have been overused and stressed will eventually spasm, causing tightness, loss of mobility and pain in the low back and possibly the back of the leg. Gentle stretching is helpful in relieving muscle spasm.
